This intangible thing we call freedom is interpreted differently by just about every individual, but one aspect that’s not open for debate is that we enjoy freedom because of the sacrifices made by countless men and women of our armed forces. We must never question that freedom is worth fighting for, and dying for. That very concept was the genesis of the United States of America.

This Memorial Day — in between the cookouts and big sales events — take the time to remember the men and women of this country’s military and the fact that they have always exemplified valor, courage and bravery. The sacrifices they’ve made down through the years allow us all to revel in the freedom we have today; the forfeiture of one’s own life for the cause of freedom is the quintessence of all that is good, right and noble about this country.

The greatness of America’s armed forces has liberated countries, freed the oppressed, toppled tyrants and dethroned dictators. But not without sacrifice; there’s virtually no corner of this globe where American troops have not spilled blood.

Thus, we may often speak of freedom yet we rarely speak of those to whom we owe it.

Many of this country’s veterans have experienced first hand the inexplicable terror of battle, and the sheer horror of war and they understand, perhaps better than many of us, just how valuable this thing freedom really is to our way of life. More acutely than most of us, they remember… the comrades who never made it back.

America’s veterans have bravely carried the torch of liberty in battles on beaches, mountains, deserts, jungles, islands, oceans, farms, fields, and forests; oftentimes enduring extreme conditions of heat, cold, rain, snow — all while doing battle; and there are so many that have made the ultimate sacrifice. That’s courage, and those brave men and women should never be forgotten.

Tomorrow, Memorial Day, it’s our turn to salute them all. We owe you a debt that can never be repaid. Thank you for your service to this great country. God bless you.